SEA Games: Young Lions' extra day of rest could make the difference against Myanmar

Singapore's under-23 defender Sheikh Abdul Hadi Sh Othman (No.15) celebrating with his teammates after scoring the goal against the Philippines at the 28th Sea Games held at the Jalan Besar Stadium on June 1, 2015. Singapore's coach Aide Iskandar believes an extra day of rest for his players could prove decisive ahead of Thursday's Group A clash against Myanmar at the Jalan Besar Stadium. -- PHOTO: SINGSOC/REUTERS

Singapore's SEA Games football coach Aide Iskandar believes an extra day of rest for his players could prove decisive ahead of Thursday's Group A clash against Myanmar at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

The Young Lions had started their search for the elusive gold medal with a 1-0 win over the Philippines on Monday, while the Myanmarese upset Indonesia 4-2 a day later.

"We have done our research on Myanmar, they are an attacking team who press high up the field," Aide told The Straits Times.

"We have an additional off day compared to them, which we hope will be an advantage. It will not be easy for them because I can tell you it's not been that easy for us too in terms of recovery."

Key forwards Faris Ramli and Shahfiq Ghani face late fitness tests as they battle to recover from calf and knee injuries respectively. Striker Irfan Fandi, who impressed as a substitute against the Filipinos, is on standby for his first start, while speedster Suria Prakash could also feature as Aide looks to refresh his line-up.

Irfan, 17, said: "I hope I've done enough to start but it's up to coach to decide. I will do my best in whatever role the team needs me in."

Thursday's encounter could well decide who ends up topping the group - and potentially avoid defending champions Thailand in the semi-finals.

The Straits Times

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